Guardians Lock in Game 5 Starter

A slightly surprising decision by Terry Francona and the Cleveland Guardians.

Aaron Civale will start for the Guardians in Game 5 of the ALDS on Tuesday against the New York Yankees.

Guardians make it official: Aaron Civale will start Game 5 vs Nestor Cortes.

— Chelsea Janes (@chelsea_janes) October 18, 2022

There was some speculation as to whether the Guardians would turn to Shane Bieber on short rest for Tuesday's win-or-go-home game in New York following Monday's postponement due to inclement weather. 

Bieber could still very well get the call to preserve a lead in the late stages of the game, but Cleveland will go to Civale to start. 

It will be his first postseason start with his team's season on the line.

Civale had a rough year but ended his season with three straight wins, posting an overall 4.92 ERA, 1.19 WHIP, and 98 strikeouts over 97 innings. He's pitched well at home this season but has an ugly 5.88 ERA on the road. 

Photo Credit:  Steven Bisig-USA TODAY Sports